Gazer Is a Reminder of When Indie Films Were Exciting
Briefly

Gazer, a debut indie film by Ryan J. Sloan and Ariella Mastroianni, spotlights Newark, New Jersey, as a compelling backdrop for a noir thriller. The filmmakers, both Jersey natives, portray the city with affection and authenticity, creating a stark setting that complements the story. The central character, Frankie, grapples with personal loss and a debilitating neurological condition, adding depth to her journey through a desolate urban landscape. Gazer draws inspiration from classic films while presenting a fresh narrative about isolation and the essence of time.
Gazer showcases Newark's potential as a distinct noirish thriller setting, using its unique landscape and the protagonist's complex psychological state to craft a compelling narrative.
Frankie, a character marked by loss and invisibility, navigates her bleak environment with a haunting sense of detachment, reflecting the film's broader themes of isolation and perception.
Sloan and Mastroianni, both New Jersey natives, infuse Gazer with local authenticity, presenting it as a film that embraces the desolate beauty of its surroundings.
Gazer's portrayal of Frankie’s neurological condition serves as a narrative device, echoing themes from past classics while offering a fresh perspective on memory and experience.
Read at Vulture
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